For everyone that wants to try trial of sekhemas 4th ascendancy

Hello everyone,

I know the Trial of Sekhemas is a contentious topic right now, but from the perspective of my Mercenary (Galvanic Shards/Shockburst Rounds), I haven’t faced significant issues. While I acknowledge that the system could be more balanced (as melee characters seem to struggle more based on feedback), it’s still achievable to obtain the 4th Ascendancy.

My character is largely SSF, aside from three items I bought for 1 exalted each to cap resistances at level 76. I was running maps with only 9% fire resistance and had no luck with crafts so I decided to buy some items to just cap them. I also had some luck crafting a decent necklace and crossbow, though I imagine most players have managed a lucky craft or two.

Here’s my experience:

Attempt 1:

Level 88, Trial Level 77
During the “Test of Time” (final route to the boss), I was heavily burdened by afflictions like Enfeeble and couldn’t see the rooms, forcing me to proceed blindly. The monsters dealt increased damage, and when I reached the boss, my DPS wasn’t enough to secure victory, and I failed.

Attempt 2:

Level 89, Trial Level 75
Using the same gear and relics (74% honor resistance, some increased honor, -6% boss damage, and slightly increased restored honor). This time, I focused on boons improving sacred water and vendors, which proved crucial. Being able to purchase almost everything from traveling vendors and the one that is always after each boss greatly enhanced my chances.

Before selecting the final boss room, I returned to town to adjust my build for single-target and boss damage (skills and spirit passives). This step was essential.

At the final boss, my character felt completely different. I barely lost honor, dealt substantial DPS, and defeated the boss in under two minutes with 85% of my honor remaining (started with 90–95%).

Key Takeaways:

Adapt Builds for Single-Target: Focus entirely on what you need for bosses, replacing unnecessary skills (e.g., swap Fork for single-target support skills).
Prioritize Vendor Boons: Having 10+ boons will exponentially enhance your build more than better gear.
If you play with Evasion, TAKE IRON REFLEXES and transform all Evasion into armor, which will lower the amount of honor you lose when being hit. Also you are not affected by the Affliction "You have no Evasion"

Boons I had:
https://imgur.com/a/pXVBgFv
Afflictions (Golden smoke and Purple smoke were the last 2 rooms which I already knew what were there so didn't matter):
https://imgur.com/a/JKxpYvu
Pledges:
https://imgur.com/a/UpIjm1n


Good luck to all of you!